The move could see “straight- forward” shoplifting cases being resolved in under two weeks, compared with the current five.

Neighbourhood justice panels will deal with anti-social behaviour and low-level crime, and offenders will be required to make amends to victims and repair any damage done.

Policing and Criminal Justice Minister Nick Herbert will say in a report today: “It is a basic principle of justice that it should be delivered without delay, yet straightforward cases that could be dealt with in days or even hours are taking weeks and months.

“Justice delayed is justice denied and victims are the biggest losers.”

Typically, almost five months pass between an offence taking place and a sentence being handed down.

Last summer’s riots showed the system can move much faster and “swift and sure” justice should be routine, said Mr Herbert.